After 35 years in prehospital and emergency services, the deputy director for Williamson County Emergency Medical Services retired from his post May 28.

Joe Granberry, who served in a leadership role in county EMS in the clinical practice division for the past 10 years, announced his decision in mid-May. He served as the deputy director for the past seven years, and prior to his work with the county, he worked for Austin/Travis County EMS.

Granberry started his career in 1979 in Austin and said he distinctly remembers the 1981 floods that occurred during Memorial Day weekend. He finished his career at the end of May after battling the floodwaters again due to recent rains.

The deputy director said he is proud of helping Williamson County EMS grow throughout his years, and said he is going to miss the camaraderie among his colleagues.

“I couldn’t have a better staff than I’ve had here in Williamson County,” he said. “I’ve had to make sure they have their supplies, but they’re the ones who hold your hand during a crisis. I’ll miss them the most.”

County commissioners honored Granberry at their May 26 meeting.

Granberry said he plans to travel across the country with his wife in their travel trailer—a trip that has been planned for more than a decade.